NASA’s X-59 experimental supersonic aircraft has successfully completed its second flight on March 20, 2026, near NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. This flight marks the beginning of a series of test flights planned for 2026.
Although the flight duration was cut short due to a technical issue, the team was able to collect critical information that will aid in future testing. Cathy Bahm, project manager for NASA’s Low-Boom Flight Demonstrator, stated, “Despite the early landing, this is a good day for the team. We collected more data, and the pilot landed safely. We’re looking forward to getting back to flight as soon as possible.”
The X-59 took off at 10:54 a.m. PDT from Edwards Air Force Base. A few minutes into the flight, pilot Jim “Clue” Less received a vehicle system warning in the cockpit, prompting a return-to-base landing at 11:03 a.m.. Less remarked, “As we like to say, it was just like the simulator – and that’s what we like to hear. This is just the beginning of a long flight campaign.”
The X-59 is engineered to fly at supersonic speeds, exceeding the speed of sound while producing a quiet thump instead of a disruptive sonic boom. This aircraft is central to NASA’s Quesst mission, which aims to pave the way for commercial supersonic flight over land.
In 2026, the X-59 is expected to accelerate its testing program, demonstrating its performance and airworthiness through a process known as envelope expansion. This involves gradually increasing its speed and altitude, ultimately reaching supersonic conditions.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
